Aston Villa have confirmed the signing of French midfielder Yacouba Sylla from Ligue 2 outfit Clermont Foot on a three-and-a-half year contract.

Arriving on transfer deadline day, Sylla becomes the first new arrival of the January transfer window for Villa, who are currently 19th in the Barclays Premier League.

The defensive-minded player, who has represented France at Under-21 level, said: "I'm very excited about the prospect of playing for Aston Villa and also to be playing in the Premier League.

"The manager (Paul Lambert) is building a dynamic and exciting young team here and there are players also with a lot of experience.

"I can't wait to fight for the club and help the club to climb the table.

"My first task will be to integrate myself with my new team-mates and to help those around me to grow and to build with them a strong team. I'm thrilled to be part of this.

"Playing at Villa Park will be unbelievable. It is a huge stadium with a great history and the crowd will be incredible. You dream about this when you become a footballer.

"I can hopefully help the team when we're defending against our opposition and to get the ball moving forward. I know the fans are very passionate and it will be great to get started as soon as possible.

"The club has made me feel very welcome already. The facilities at the training ground are first-class and I will be very proud when I put on the shirt and play my first game. I am looking forward to this very much."

Sylla signed for Clermont in 2009 having played for a number of lower league sides in France.

Lambert said of his new recruit: "Yacouba will add a bit of steel into the midfield which will help the other lads in there.

"Even though he's still a young guy, there were a few teams interested and closely monitoring him.

"I think he'll do well. Hopefully, he adapts quickly and gives us something to complement the guys around him.

"Physically, he's strong for it and, although he'll be new to it, he's raring to go."